53 Battalion Australian Army Cadets- Southwest,Great Southern & South Metro

29/04/2026

🌅 ANZAC SPIRIT FLYING ACROSS THE BATTALION 🌅

As the 25th of April, ANZAC Day, has just passed, we would like to thank all staff, cadets, and civilians for commemorating the day, including attending the Dawn Service, allowing a time of reflection for all servicemen and women, past and present.

53 Battalion has paraded as far north as Armadale and as far south as Albany. Units have commemorated the day through parades, Dawn Services, and by representing the Australian Defence Force at schools and other events.

On behalf of the Army and Army Cadets, we honour the ANZACs and uphold the values of Service, Courage, Respect, Integrity, and Excellence — the core values of the Australian Defence Force.

We are grateful for the support from the general public and RSLs across the state for their continued dedication and for standing with us on ANZAC Day.

Lest We Forget

04/03/2026

📢 53 Battalion Leadership Team - 2026

We are pleased to announce the 53 Battalion Leadership Team for 2026:

🔷 Battalion CUO: CUO Ryan Gales
🔷 Battalion RSM: CDTWO1 Manaia Murphy
🔷 Battalion ADJT: CDTSGT Samuel Casotti

Cadet Under Officer Ryan Gales has most recently served as Battalion Adjutant in 2025. He has demonstrated strong operational leadership and commitment to the Battalion, representing both it and the Brigade at a range of activities. His achievements include completing the Adventure Training Award and representing Western Australia at the 2025 National Cadet Leadership Conference.

Cadet Warrant Officer Class 1 Manaia Murphy has previously held various positions as Company Sergeant Major of 515 and supported 511 ACUs. Known for his professionalism and high standards, he has led Public Affairs teams at numerous cadet activities and has played a key role in maintaining discipline and standards within his respective units.

Cadet Sergeant Samuel Casotti from 59 ACU Rockingham will assume the position of Battalion Adjutant starting in April. He has previously served in several administrative positions within his unit, building organisational and leadership skills.

Additionally, we would like to congratulate and recognise the achievements of outgoing Battalion CUO Lincoln Godwin on his appointment as Regional Cadet Under Officer for the WA AAC BDE. We wish you every success in your new role.

20/02/2026

⭐️!WE ARE BACK!⭐️

That’s right everyone, 512 ACU will re open its doors on the 22nd of April 2026.

✅Are you aged from 13-17?

✅Are you over the age of 18 and still want to be apart of Australian Army Cadets… No worries, we have Army Cadet Staff position available to!

✅Are you interested in being apart of one of Australia’s largest youth development organisations?

✅Do you want to be apart of a team?

✅Do you like abseiling, shooting, fieldcraft, outdoors, community engagement, STEM and National activities?

With all uniform items and gear provided, the AAC could be the organisation for you!

512 ACU will be conducting an open night… more to follow on that soon! 👀

So if you would like to be an Australian Army Cadet then please visit Armycadets.gov.au or message us on facebook!

HOW TO JOIN the Army Cadets (CADETS):
Follow the link here: https://m.cadetnet.gov.au/v5m/eoi/UI/index.html #/eoi/cadet?unit=512ACU

HOW TO JOIN the Army Cadets (Adults):
Follow the link here:
https://m.cadetnet.gov.au/v5m/eoi/UI/index.html #/eoi/adult?ServiceId=2&unit=512ACU

13/02/2026

09/12/2025

The AAC Year-In-Review is now live!

Take a moment to check out the incredible achievements from across the country this year. Cadets have taken part in National Activities, international exchanges, Royal visits, drone racing, and even supported the Supercar Championship — a massive year of opportunity and growth.

A special congratulations to 515 Army Cadet Unit - Bunbury, recognised as the Highlight ACU for Australian Army Cadets - Western Australia Brigade.

Here’s to an even bigger and better year ahead in 2026! 👏

Created with the Heyzine flipbook maker

08/12/2025

CO REVIEWS PARADE

53 Battalion Headquarters was proud to attend the 515 Army Cadet Unit - Bunbury End of Year Parade, celebrating a year of hard work, growth, and achievement from the cadets.

The parade was reviewed by MAJ (AAC) Hales, Battalion Commander, with CUO Godwin, Battalion CUO, attending as a guest of honour. We thank 515 ACU for their warm welcome and for hosting a well-executed and professional evening under the leadership of CAPT (AAC) Cassin, Officer Commanding 515 ACU.

Cadets of 515 ACU have shown outstanding commitment throughout 2025, consistently demonstrating improvement, discipline, and enthusiasm, in addition to winning the Unit Efficiency Award for WA Brigade. Their efforts were clearly reflected in the quality of the parade and in the achievements recognised on the night. Congratulations to all award recipients—your hard work has not gone unnoticed.

Battalion Headquarters also acknowledges CUO Pearce and CDTSGT Rose, who are finishing their time in the Australian Army Cadets. Both have served with dedication and have made a significant impact on their unit and peers, as well as the wider organisation. We thank them for their years of service and wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

Well done to all cadets and staff of 515 ACU. We look forward to seeing your continued success in the year ahead.

Australian Army Cadets Australian Army Cadets - Western Australia Brigade

03/12/2025

MATESHIP ON EX LOCKYER - RSM VISIT

Historical roots are integral for imbuing a sense of purpose into our people. Last weekend, it was my distinct pleasure as the 53 Battalion RSM to accompany 515 Army Cadet Unit - Bunbury and 511 Army Cadet Unit - Busselton on Ex Lockyer, their final winding-down camp of the year, alongside the 53 Battalion CUO.

Together, we explored the deep historical significance of Albany and its connection to the ANZAC legend. The cadets immersed themselves in history, starting at the incredible National Anzac Center, before working our way through the Museum of the Great Southern, boarding the Brig Amity, and finishing with a compelling tour of the Albany Convict Gaol Museum. While learning military history is essential for developing our youth leaders, what was particularly apparent was the cadets' genuine passion for understanding the legends that continue to shape our Australian identity.

However, the weekend was not solely defined by sombre reflection; it was also a celebration of camaraderie. To decompress from a busy training year, the units participated in a series of dynamic team-building activities designed to strengthen bonds and lift morale. A standout moment for me was the game of 'Bin Ball.' It was fantastic to see the cadets letting their guard down and simply enjoying the moment with their peers, creating a shared experience that goes beyond standard training. This positive energy carried right into the unit-wide Quiz Night later on, which cemented some great memories for the group with individuals that people might never have interacted with previously.

These activities did more than just provide downtime; they reinforced the trust and communication required of effective teams. This activity was a rare and special opportunity in the way it was conducted, and I was thoroughly impressed by the tenacity and strong bonds displayed by the leaders of these great units.

I trust that the cadets who attended will draw upon the values of the ANZACs; discipline, integrity, and mateship; and carry this character forward into next year.

Best wishes to all units for a strong finish to the year.

- CDTWO1 B. Medbury, 53 Bn RSM

Australian Army Cadets Australian Army Cadets - Western Australia Brigade

01/12/2025

ADJUTANT ATTENDS DINING IN NIGHT

On the 26th of November, both the Battalion Commander, MAJ (AAC) Hales, and myself had the privilege of attending the End-of-Year Dining In Night for 59 and 54 ACUs, Rockingham and Baldivis, held at the Rockingham RSL.

Once again we would like to acknowledge the outstanding efforts of CAPT (AAC) Hall, CAPT (AAC) New, all unit ACS, CUO De Britt (59ACU COYCOMD), CDTWO2 McGlinchy (59 ACU CSM) and CDTSGTs Conway-Mortimer and Martin (54 ACU COYCOMD and CSM), in planning and executing a spectacular evening and year. Thank you for your continuing work and support within the organisation.

Congratulations to all those recognised with awards and promotions, and goodluck to all those attending promotional courses over the break. To those exiting the program, thank you for your participation and dedication to the AAC, you have left a lasting impact on the organisation.

Thank you for a wonderful night, and we look forward to seeing what further excitement you will bring to the table next year.

- CUO R. Gales, Bn ADJT

Australian Army Cadets - Western Australia Brigade Australian Army Cadets

27/11/2025

518 ACU KATANNING VISIT

Last night, the Battalion RSM and I had the privilege of visiting 518 Army cadet Unit Katanning WA. We were warmly welcomed by staff and cadets and even joined them for dinner — a big thank you to the unit for their hospitality.

Throughout the evening, we took part in team-building activities and had the chance to speak with the cadets about their highlights from the year. Their enthusiasm, resilience, and commitment to their unit were evident in every conversation.

We also met with the staff and appreciated the opportunity to hear how we can continue to support 518 ACU, especially as a small regional unit doing outstanding work.

Thank you, 518 ACU, for a fantastic visit — keep up the great work team! 👏

- CUO L. Godwin, 53 Bn CUO

Australian Army Cadets Australian Army Cadets - Western Australia Brigade

20/11/2025

📣 BATTALION UPDATES - UNIT AWARDS 📣

This week, the Battalion CUO, CUO Godwin, and Battalion RSM, CDTWO1 Medbury, had the privilege of visiting 52 Army Cadet Unit - Armadale and 54 ACU Baldivis to present their recent RSM Initiative Awards.

🎖 About the RSM Initiative

Introduced this year by the Battalion RSM, CDTWO1 Medbury, the RSM Initiative aims to strengthen battalion-wide uniformity, recognise the excellent work of ACUs across 53 Battalion, and create a consistent standard of excellence. The initiative has already proven highly effective—rewarding units that perform at an exceptional level and encouraging all ACUs to continually strive for improvement.

🏅 52 ACU – Armadale:
2025 Term 3 RSM Initiative – Attitudes

Awarded for their outstanding improvement in cadet attitudes, demonstrated through stronger respect for rank, enhanced section efficiency, and a more unified command. Their efforts set a clear benchmark across the Battalion.

🏅 54 ACU – Baldivis:
2025 Term 2 RSM Initiative – Standards

Recognised for their exceptional commitment to maintaining the highest standards of dress, bearing, and conduct, as well as their consistent improvement throughout the term.

A huge congratulations to both units for their dedication, professionalism, and contribution to the Battalion.
Keep striving for excellence! 🌟

Australian Army Cadets Australian Army Cadets - Western Australia Brigade